Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Port begins $37.5 million terminal expansion
Work is underway on a $37.5 million expansion of a terminal at PortMiami where the Swiss-based cruise line MSC Cruises intends to operate additional ships.
PortMiami and MSC officials recently held a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off construction for enhancements at Terminal F. The project’s goals include the expansion of a waiting area that will accommodate 1,500 passengers, as well as an exclusive VIP reception lounge.
Renovation plans also call for an improved disembarkation and baggage claim process and technology upgrades to make arrivals and departures more seamless.
“This is a very exciting time for MSC Cruises as we continue our expansion in the North American market,” said Roberto Fusaro, president of MSC Cruises USA, in a statement.
“As we break ground on MSC Seaside’s and MSC Divina’s new home, we are extremely proud to celebrate our ongoing commitment to better serving our guests.”
Geneva-based MSC, known for its Mediterranean roots, operates its North American division from Fort Lauderdale.
The renovated terminal with its new building is expected to be ready ahead of the arrival of MSC Seaside, which is set to debut at PortMiami on Dec. 21, 2017, MSC said.
The 5,179-passenger ship will be its “most innovative ship yet,” the cruise line said. Onboard offerings will include an interactive aqua park at sea with five water slides, 11 dining venues including five specialty restaurants and an expanded MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive area within the ship that offers a private sun deck, lounge and restaurant.
MSC Seaside will join the 4,345-passenger MSC Divina, which is already sailing year-round from Miami to the Caribbean from Terminal F.
The facility upgrades are part of an agreement signed on Dec. 1, 2015 between MSC and Miami-Dade County that committed the cruise line to base MSC Seaside at PortMiami in exchange for capital improvements. The deal also included certain incentives and passenger guarantees.
Munilla Construction Management, which is headquartered in Miami and has an office in Dania Beach, is overseeing the terminal project.